This Hearty Cowboy Stew is a warm and filling dish, perfect for when you’re craving something comforting. With beef, beans, and veggies, every bite is a taste of the wild west!
I love how easy it is to throw everything in one pot, making dinner clean-up a breeze. Plus, it warms you right up on chilly nights. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for more! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews due to its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute sirloin or use stew meat from the store.
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers build a fantastic flavor base. Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand, like potatoes, corn, or green beans—whatever you like best!
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans add heartiness and protein to the stew. You could use black beans or cannellini beans instead if you prefer or if that’s what you have in your pantry.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth, but regular paprika works too. You can try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra heat if you like it spicy. Adjust spices to your taste!
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender in the Stew?
Getting tender beef is all about cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by ensuring the beef cubes are well-seared on all sides to lock in flavors.
- Once all ingredients are combined, reduce the heat and let the stew simmer gently. Low heat allows the meat to break down and become tender.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! At least 1.5 to 2 hours ensures the beef gets nice and soft.
Remember to check the stew occasionally and stir to prevent sticking. Enjoy your cowboy stew adventure!
Hearty Cowboy Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Time Estimate:
This hearty cowboy stew takes about 20 minutes to prep and 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. So, you’re looking at approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper. In batches, brown the beef for 4-5 minutes per side, getting a nice sear. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Veggies:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. This is where the base flavors start to build!
3. Adding Flavor:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom and release their wonderful aroma.
4. Bringing it All Together:
Return the seared beef back into the pot. Next, add the canned diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, drained pinto beans, and beef broth. Toss in the bay leaves for extra flavor and give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Simmering the Stew:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the bay leaves from the stew. Taste it and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Now you’re ready to serve!
7. Serving:
Serve the hot cowboy stew in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this hearty meal!
FAQ About Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Different Meat for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is traditional, you can use pork, turkey, or even a vegetarian protein like lentils or mushrooms. If using poultry, cook it for a shorter time to avoid dryness.
What Can I Substitute for the Beans?
If beans aren’t your thing, you can leave them out or replace them with more vegetables. Options like corn, peas, or diced potatoes would add extra heartiness!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours until the beef is tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
